Eating Disorders

FIVE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT EATING DISORDERS?

Myth #5: Eating disorders only affect white, middle class females, particularly adolescent girls

It is true that the peak period for the onset of eating disorders is between the ages of 12 and 25 years, with a median age of around 18 years. One key group with a high risk of eating disorders is women, particularly those going through key transition periods (e.g. from school to adult life, pregnancy and menopause). This high risk has lead to a misconception that eating disorders only happen in this population.

Truth:

Eating disorders can affect anyone. They occur:

Across all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds Amongst people of all ages, from children to the elderly In both men and women Population studies have suggested that males make up approximately 25% of people with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa and 40% of people with binge eating disorder. In a recent study lifetime prevalence for anorexia nervosa in adolescents aged 13 — 18 years found no difference between males and females. In addition to women and adolescents, there are other groups in the community who are also at a higher risk of developing an eating disorder, for example:People who engage in particular sports (e.g. gymnastics, athletics, rowing), dancers and models people who are experiencing high levels of stress people who have other mental illnesses, such as anxiety or depression People who have other physical illnesses, such as diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome. Eating disorders are not limited to any one group of people and the prevalence of eating disorders in specific high risk groups should not distract the community from the importance of recognising eating disorders in other populations.

So this is the end. I hope this has helped you all and I'd pike to say a thanks to all you who have read this to try to understand. :)